The presentation provided an overview of the latest research related to rivers. It also showcased NOAA Marine Debris Program funded projects in rivers that tackle this persistent source of pollution and some of the challenges, solutions, and funding opportunities. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service highlighted a collaborative project with NOAA that removed human-made debris from the Pearl River (boundary of Louisiana and Mississippi) that restored hydrologic functions to the river and provided fish passage to the endangered Gulf sturgeon and other anadromous species, among other benefits. 

The River Management Society is a national nonprofit organization whose mission is “to support professionals who study, protect and manage North America’s rivers” by developing and hosting training workshops and open information-sharing events that enable anyone who works on, around or in service to rivers to learn and meet experts and enthusiasts. The webinar and subsequent discussion provided a new forum to discuss connections between land-based sources of trash that may become marine debris and to make connections with upstream managers.